This week, the Singapore Kindness Movement (SKM) kicked off the 12th annual Kindness Day Singapore (KDSG), celebrating with a theme that captures the essence of compassion and goodwill: “May Kindness Be With You.”
In today’s rapidly changing world, marked by uncertainty and challenges, kindness is essential. It fosters connections, alleviates stress, and promotes mental well-being. Acts of kindness, whether small or grand, create a ripple effect, enhancing communities and providing hope and stability in turbulent times. Kindness is the foundation for a better, more compassionate society.
This year’s event by Singapore Kindness Movement is more special than ever, extending over a week from now until May 19th, with a series of engaging activities at Plaza Singapura Level One Atrium designed to promote kindness and gracious living.
A week of kindness with Singapore Kindness Movement
In a departure from previous years, the 2024 celebrations span an entire week, offering the community a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the spirit of kindness through various on-ground activations. From interactive installations to thoughtful workshops, attendees can experience the profound impact of kindness in everyday life. The Singapore Kindness Movement event aims to inspire self-reflection, encourage acts of kindness, and foster a more gracious society.
The inaugural Stickability Award
A highlight of the festivities is the inaugural Stickability Award Ceremony, set to take place on May 18th. This award recognizes the dedication and tenacity of Ground-Up Movements (GUMs) that have been integral to SKM’s mission over the past decade.
These GUMs, including Roses of Peace, The Volunteer Switchboard, The Morning Greeters, and others, have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering kindness within the community. Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law, Mr. Edwin Tong, will grace the event as the Guest-of-Honour.
A transformative festival experience
The Kindness Day Singapore Festival offers visitors a transformative six-step experience designed to inspire and commit to promoting kindness and gracious living. This engaging journey encourages attendees to reflect on their actions, find inspiration from others, and make a personal commitment to kindness.
Throughout the festival, select GUMs will share their inspiring stories and host Q&A sessions from May 17th to 19th. These sessions provide an intimate glimpse into the impactful work these movements have done and continue to do in promoting kindness across Singapore.
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Expanding the kindred spirit circle
In addition to honoring long-standing GUMs, Singapore Kindness Movement will induct ten new GUMs and recognize several Organised Kindness Initiatives and Enterprises (OKIEs) and Voices of Loving Kindness (VOLKs) into the Kindred Spirit Circle (KSC). This collective is dedicated to spreading the message of kindness and inspiring others to contribute to a more caring and gracious society. Michelle Tay, Director of Programmes & Operations of SKM, emphasized the importance of this celebration as a testament to the power of kindness in building a compassionate community.
Insights from the SKM Graciousness Survey
The SKM Graciousness Survey, conducted annually since 2008, continues to provide valuable insights into the state of kindness and graciousness in Singapore. The 2023 survey revealed that Singaporeans aged 25-44 are increasingly positive about showing consideration and appreciation, marking a shift towards a more courteous society.
Beyond the week-long festival, SKM has organized various activities throughout the past year to inspire greater kindness within the community. Notable among these is the B-Greater initiative held in October 2023. For KDSG 2024, SKM has partnered with around ten local organisations, including Go-Ahead Singapore, Gardenia, The Gym Pod, Housing & Development Board Singapore, National Heritage Board and National Parks Board to name a few, with the goal of further amplifying the message of kindness.
Join the celebration
As Singapore Kindness Movement continues to foster a culture of kindness, the 12th Kindness Day Singapore and the inaugural Kindness Festival serve as powerful reminders of the transformative impact of compassion. Go down to Plaza Singapura from now until May 19th, and be part of this remarkable celebration of kindness, community, and gracious living. Afterall, the world can always use some love, kindness and compassion.
Celebrate the spirit of kindness and make a difference in your community. May kindness be with you!
For more information on Singapore Kindness Movement, visit www.kindness.sg.
